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A non-profit publication of the Office of the University Relations of Virginia Tech,
including The Conductor, a special section of the Spectrum printed 4 times a year

Outstanding GTA's honored

By Susan Trulove

Spectrum Volume 18 Issue 26 - April 4, 1996

As a Ph.D. student in biology, Donna Jensen takes her research seriously. But
her teaching duties are not a second priority, biology faculty members
observe.

Student evaluations of Ph.D. student Jerry Warren Jr.'s teaching in lectures
and laboratory classes in engineering science and mechanics was at a level
attained by only a handful of faculty members. Warren's students repeatedly
comment on his concern for them.

Jensen and Warren have been named Virginia Tech's 1995 Outstanding Graduate
Teaching Assistants.

Faculty members request Donna Jensen as a GTA, and students elect to take her
labs. Many students also have become her unofficial advisees, notes Joe
Falkinham, Jensen's major professor.

Jensen's teaching ranges from freshman biology labs to a pilot development lab
in genetics. Because of her ability and breadth of knowledge, she was asked to
teach the molecular biology lab, which serves seniors and first-year graduate
students and is part of the university's new biotechnology program. "It is a
constantly evolving course that requires an up-to-date knowledge of the field,"
said Brenda W. Shirley, assistant professor.

Jensen "lectures clearly and concisely and also makes a point of getting to
know students one-on-one in the laboratory setting," said Elizabeth Grabau,
assistant professor. "She is extremely calm and patient with students. Her
quiet style encourages even easily intimidated students to participate in
discussion and exploration of the subject matter. Her individual attention to
students provides them not only with knowledgeable answers but also with a view
of what it is like to be a graduate student and a researcher."

"Donna's enthusiasm for science in general and molecular biology in particular
was shown in her eagerness to relay her knowledge to the students," wrote GTA
colleague Lana Nassif. "She was always prepared to ask and answer questions,
probe students for thoughtful answers, and help anyone during and outside
laboratory hours. She always made students feel good about themselves and
encouraged them to persevere."

Jensen has also assisted with GTA training and with the revision of the
microscope and microbial diversity labs.

In addition to her teaching duties, Jensen has an active research program in
microbial genetics, has worked as a research assistant during the summers, has
a nearly perfect academic record, and made presentations at regional and
national scientific meetings.

She earned her bachelor of science degree in biology as a magna cum
laude graduate of Southern College in Tennessee. She has been at Virginia
Tech since 1992.

"Jay Warren knows the subject matter, communicates it effectively and with
enthusiasm, and motivates students," said Norman Dowling, professor in
engineering science and mechanics and in materials science and engineering.

Ronald Landgraf, ESM professor, said he was able to expand on course content
because of Warren's assistance as a GTA with the senior design course.

Warren taught mechanical behavior of materials laboratory 11 times and the
materials testing laboratory for four years, and also taught the lecture
courses statics and strength of materials I and II, and statics and particle
dynamics, "a critical introductory course required for all engineering majors,"
Dowling said. The fact that Warren was selected to teach this course "reflects
a high degree of confidence by the ESM department in his ability and
dedication."

"He can teach well, he has a genuine concern for students, etc. I could go on
and on. By far the best instructor I've had," one student said.

"Makes the material actually exciting..." wrote another.

"Always available and willing to answer questions," is what one student said
was his best quality, while others noted that Warren "Knows his stuff."

"Mr. Warren is always willing to take time to explain any problem that you
have both during class or after."

Warren also volunteered in teaching duties outside of the classroom, such as a
Saturday program for outstanding high school students, and the Center for
Talented Youth's workshop for students aged 7 to 17. And he helped with seniors
projects, such as a human-powered submarine competition.

Landgraf said of Warren's contribution to the submarine project: "he
volunteered many hours" reviewing design concepts and calculations, providing
guidance in use of computer-analysis software and training in use of power
tools and shop equipment, making trips to the hardware store seeking solutions
to "the problem of the day," and showing up with pizza, drinks, and "a dose of
humor."

Landgraf said Warren excelled as a student and a researcher. He earned the Dr.
Manuel Stein Scholarship from the College of Engineering this year in
recognition of his academic work. Warren earned his undergraduate degree in
civil engineering from Virginia Tech in 1987.